MAGGIE MAUNYE APOLOGISES FOR HER REMARKS

3 July 2011

African National Congress Member of Parliament and Chairperson of the Portfolio Committee on Home Affairs, Maggie Maunye, has carefully reflected on the comments she made at the committee meeting of 29 June 2011, which may have been construed to be xenophobic (see report in The Star.

She realises that her remarks, which sought to underscore South Africa's challenges pertaining to the immigration control, may have been insensitive to the plight of many foreign African nationals whose presence in this country is legitimate or a consequence of hardships in their native countries.

She also recognises that her views, although not so intended, may have run counter to the letter and spirit of the ANC policies, to which she subscribes as a longstanding member of the movement.

Comrade Maunye deeply regrets the comments and unconditionally apologise for the harm they may have caused.

Members of the media are advised that further enquiries on this particular matter should be directed to Office of the ANC Chief Whip, through its spokesperson.

Statement issued by The Office of the ANC Chief Whip, Parliament, July 3 2011

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